Mitchell School District
Novel Coronavirus Information
Dear Mitchell staff, student, and families,
Recent global reports of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) have captured attention. The virus is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person when in close contact with an infected person exhibiting symptoms. Common symptoms in an infected person who has coronavirus (COVID-19) include a fever, cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing.
On Friday, February 28, an individual who works in another school district in Oregon was identified as having the virus. This news has turned attention to our local schools and what we are doing to keep students and adults safe and healthy. It also underscores the seriousness of everyone taking reasonable precautions to minimize the likelihood of additional cases.
At this time, no student or staff in the Mitchell nor anyone in our area have been diagnosed with the novel coronavirus. We are continuing to monitor the situation, however, and obtain updates from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local health officials. We will be coordinating with local health officials, which may include when to close schools and/or cancel activities. We understand that it is a concern and would like to reiterate that at this time, again, the Mitchell School District does not have any reports of infected individuals but we need everyone's help to maintain a healthy and safe school and community.
Our custodial staff has already begun to focus an increased emphasis on effectively cleaning high contact areas such as drinking fountains, handrails, door knobs/push bars etc.
Please take a moment to review these tips to help prevent COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses:
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
Novel Coronavirus Fact Sheet - Spanish
How can I avoid getting COVID-19 Fact Sheet
As a reminder, please do not send your children to school if they are sick. Keeping your ill child home will greatly benefit the health and wellness of students and the staff who serve them. If you have questions about these topics, please contact your child’s health care professional or the Wheeler County Health Department. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
Sincerely,
Vince Swagerty, Superintendent
Mitchell SD #55